SALTLICK TOWNSHIP, Pa. (KDKA) – A community is mourning a 16-year-old boy who died in a crash over the weekend in Fayette County.
The accident happened on Indian Creek Valley Road in Saltlick Township on Saturday, and the Fayette County coroner identified the victim as Tyler Nicholson.
State police say 19-year-old Ryan Leighty was driving a Ford Mustang with Nicholson as a passenger when their vehicle collided with another vehicle turning into Calvary Church Road. Nicholson was pronounced dead at the scene.
The coroner said neither the teenager was wearing a seat belt nor the vehicle had an airbag system.
KDKA
Nicholson’s family members told KDKA-TV on Monday that Leighty was driving to his wedding when the crash occurred. Nicholson is said to be the best man.
Shelby Leighty, Nicholson’s girlfriend said: ‘He went to the car wash to wash his car to take pictures after the wedding.
A memorial at the crash scene features flowers, balloons and an image of Nicholson. Some friends gathered around the memorial on Monday afternoon.
Shelby Leighty said: “He was only 16. It wasn’t his time, but God wanted it and needed him up there more than we needed him down here.”
Caleb Russell, a friend of Nicholson’s said: “(Nicholson) very, very dear to others.
Many said they were still in shock at what happened.
Shelby Leighty said: “Being around a good group of friends who love him as much as I do, talking about the good times really helps.
“He knows we love him, and I think he loves us. We sat here for five hours yesterday just talking about him. We laughed and giggled as we talked about it all. silly things we used to do to them,” Russell said. Monday.
“I loved him, and I will miss him forever,” said Shelby Leighty.
Police said Ryan Leighty was taken to a local hospital on the day of the crash. Friends told KDKA-TV that he is recovering.
The driver of the other vehicle was taken by ambulance to a local hospital. There are no updates on his condition.
State police said an investigation was underway. To date, no fees have been paid.
Funeral arrangements for Nicholson are being handled by the Vito Martucci Funeral Home in Connellsville.
